Review Detail

Reader reviewed by Julie M. Prince

Caillou: Happy Holidays! approaches the holidays from a festive, multi-cultural perspective. As Caillou and his family share and begin their own traditions, short, easy-to-digest stories tell the origin of older Christmas traditions as well.

I found some of the interwoven stories about Caillou to be a bit disjointedjumping from card-making to toy-giving, to nursing home visits and dressing up for Christmas dinner. Everything seemed to be packed too tightly to make the story feel as welcoming and suspenseful as it could.

However, the smaller mystery of disappearing household items was sweet, and I was also charmed by the tales of how other countries celebrate the holidays, giving ample opportunity for young minds to note similarities and differences and ask follow-up questions.

Kids will enjoy identifying their own holiday traditions amongst those of a familiar and beloved character. A fun, family read.